Intentions – Justin Bieber ft. Quavo

Justin Bieber’s song “Intentions,” featuring Quavo, is a standout track from his 2020 album Changes, and its official video (short version) adds a deeper emotional layer to the song’s message. Released on February 7, 2020, “Intentions” became a hit, not only for its catchy rhythm and smooth vocals but also for its message of love, empowerment, and positivity. The song and video highlight the importance of supporting those we love, helping others achieve their goals, and making a positive impact on the world.

The Collaboration: Justin Bieber and Quavo
“Intentions” marks another successful collaboration between Justin Bieber and Quavo, the latter being a member of the hip-hop trio Migos. The two had previously worked together on DJ Khaled’s 2017 hit “I’m the One.” Their musical chemistry is evident in “Intentions,” as both artists bring their unique styles to the track. Bieber’s smooth, melodic vocals blend seamlessly with Quavo’s laid-back, rhythmic rap verses, creating a balanced and engaging song.

For Bieber, Changes marked a new era in his career, one in which he focused on themes of love, growth, and personal development. The album leaned heavily into R&B influences, and “Intentions” is one of the standout tracks that showcases Bieber’s evolved sound. Quavo’s contribution adds a modern hip-hop touch, giving the song a dynamic contrast between pop and rap, making it appealing to a wide range of listeners.

Lyrical Themes: Love, Empowerment, and Support
The lyrics of “Intentions” revolve around the idea of expressing pure, heartfelt intentions toward someone you love. Bieber sings about uplifting his partner, praising her for her inner and outer beauty, and making sure she feels valued and supported. The chorus—“Shout out to your mom and dad for makin’ you, standin’ ovation, they did a great job raisin’ you”—is a direct compliment to the partner’s upbringing and character, focusing on appreciating the person for who they are, not just how they look.

The song’s lyrics also emphasize the importance of having good intentions in a relationship, as Bieber expresses his desire to be there for his partner in every way possible. Lines like “Picture perfect, you don’t need no filter” and “Stay in the kitchen, cookin’ up, got your own bread” highlight a sense of admiration and support for a partner’s independence and strength. Bieber isn’t just praising external beauty; he’s acknowledging the partner’s inner qualities, work ethic, and resilience.

Quavo’s verse continues this theme of admiration and respect, as he adds his own perspective on loving someone with pure intentions. He raps about spoiling his partner but also emphasizes emotional support and being there for them beyond material things. His lyrics help maintain the song’s tone of appreciation and respect.

The Official Video: Empowering Women and Uplifting Communities
The official short version of the “Intentions” video is more than just a visual complement to the song; it serves as a powerful platform to highlight real-life stories of women overcoming challenges. Directed by Michael D. Ratner, the video focuses on the lives of three women from Los Angeles who are part of Alexandria House, a transitional living shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness.

Throughout the video, viewers are introduced to Bahri, Angela, and Marcy, three women who have faced significant hardships in life but are determined to make a better future for themselves and their families. Bahri is a young woman who dreams of becoming a lawyer and is the first in her family to attend college. Angela is a mother of five who experienced homelessness but now works as an advocate for affordable housing. Marcy is an artist who uses her creativity to inspire others while working toward building a stable future.

Instead of focusing on typical romantic visuals, the video for “Intentions” takes a more socially conscious approach, with Bieber and Quavo showing their support for these women. In the video, the artists surprise each woman with financial support and resources to help them achieve their goals. For example, Bahri receives a car to make commuting to school easier, Angela is supported in her advocacy work, and Marcy is given art supplies to continue her passion for creativity.

The video’s focus on these inspiring women aligns perfectly with the message of the song. By highlighting their stories, Bieber and Quavo demonstrate their intentions to use their platform to uplift others and promote positive change. The video also directs viewers to Alexandria House’s website, encouraging donations and support for the organization.

Positive Impact and Reception
“Intentions” was not only a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in various countries, but it also had a significant social impact due to the message conveyed through its music video. Fans and critics alike praised the video for its heartfelt storytelling and for shedding light on important social issues such as homelessness, gender inequality, and access to education.

The song and video garnered appreciation for moving away from traditional themes often found in pop music, such as superficial love or partying, and focusing on deeper, more meaningful content. Bieber’s decision to spotlight women from marginalized communities resonated with many, as it showed his desire to use his platform for good and promote social causes.

Bieber’s support for Alexandria House and his call to action for fans to donate to the cause reflected a growing trend in the music industry where artists are using their influence to create change. By connecting the message of “Intentions” to real-life stories of empowerment and resilience, Bieber was able to inspire his audience to think about the power of good intentions in their own lives.

Conclusion: A Song with a Heartfelt Message
“Intentions” is more than just a catchy pop track; it is a song with a purpose. By focusing on themes of love, empowerment, and support, and by using the video to highlight the inspiring stories of real women, Justin Bieber and Quavo delivered a message of hope and positivity. The collaboration between the two artists not only showcases their musical talents but also demonstrates their commitment to making a difference in the world.

Through its lyrics, music video, and social message, “Intentions” encourages listeners to approach their relationships and actions with good intentions, whether in love, friendship, or broader community support. The success of the song and the impact of its video serve as a reminder of the importance of using art to inspire positive change.

Picture perfect, you don’t need no filter
Gorgeous, make ’em drop dead, you’re a killer
Shower you with all my attention
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Stay in the kitchen cookin’ up, got your own bread
Heart full of equity or an asset
Make sure that you don’t need no mentions
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Shout out to your mom and dad for makin’ you
Standin’ ovation, they did a great job raisin’ you
When I create you’re my muse
That kind of smile that makes the news
Can’t nobody throw shade on your name in these streets
Triple threat, you’re a boss, you a bae, you a beast
You make it easy to choose
You got a mean touch, I can’t refuse (No, I can’t refuse it)
Picture perfect, you don’t need no filter
Gorgeous, make ’em drop dead, you’re a killer
Shower you with all my attention
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Stay in the kitchen cookin’ up, got your own bread
Heart full of equity or an asset
Make sure that you don’t need no mentions
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Already passed, you don’t need no approval
Good everywhere, don’t worry ’bout no refusal
Second to none, you got the upper hand now
Don’t need a sponsor, nope, you’re the brand now
You’re my rock, my Colorado
Got that ring, just like Toronto
Lovin’ you now, a little more tomorrow
That’s how I feel, act like you know that you are
Picture perfect, you don’t need no filter
Gorgeous, make ’em drop dead, you’re a killer
Shower you with all my attention
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Stay in the kitchen cookin’ up, got you’re own bread (Whip it)
Heart full of equity or an asset (Asset)
Make sure that you don’t need no mentions (Yeah, yeah)
Yeah, these are my only intentions (Quavo)
No cap, no pretendin’
You don’t need mentions (No cap)
Got ’em sayin’ “goals”, they don’t wanna be independent (‘Pendent)
Tell them to mind your business (Woo), we in our feelings
It’s fifty-fifty percentage (Fifty)
Attention, we need commitment (Oh)
We got it both admitted (Both)
It’s funny we both listen (Both)
It’s a blessing (Blessing) ’cause we both get it (Both)
You the best thing and I don’t need a witness (Best thing)
I’ma find me a ring and pray it’s perfect fitted (Perfect, perfect)
Picture perfect, you don’t need no filter (No filter)
Gorgeous, make ’em drop dead, you a killer (Oh-oh)
Shower you with all my attention (I will)
Yeah, these are my only intentions (Yeah)
Stay in the kitchen cookin’ up, got your own bread (You do)
Heart full of equity, you’re an asset (Uh-uh)
Make sure that you don’t need no mentions (No mentions)
Yeah, these are my only intentions
Only intentions
That’s all I plan to do